Why Brushing Your Dog's Teeth is Very Important

When it comes to grooming, many dog owners focus on baths, nail trims, and coat care—but dental hygiene is often overlooked. Yet, brushing your dog's teeth is one of the most important aspects of their overall health and wellbeing. Let's explore why dental care should be a priority for every dog owner.

The Silent Problem: Dental Disease in Dogs

Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs, yet it's also one of the most preventable. According to PDSA, poor dental hygiene can lead to serious health complications that go far beyond bad breath.

Why Dental Care Matters

1. Prevents Painful Dental Disease

Just like humans, dogs accumulate plaque and tartar on their teeth. Without regular cleaning, this buildup leads to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontal disease, which is painful and can cause:

• Red, swollen, and bleeding gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Difficulty eating
• Jaw bone deterioration
• Chronic pain and discomfort

RSPCA emphasizes that many dogs suffer silently from dental pain because they instinctively hide discomfort.

2. Protects Overall Health

Dental disease doesn't stay in the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs, including:

• Heart: Linked to endocarditis (heart valve infection)
• Liver: Bacterial spread can cause liver damage
• Kidneys: Chronic dental infection affects kidney function

According to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, maintaining good dental hygiene can add years to your dog's life by preventing these systemic health issues.

3. Saves Money on Veterinary Bills

Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia can cost £300-£800 or more, especially if extractions are needed. Regular at-home brushing significantly reduces the need for costly dental procedures.

Prevention is always cheaper than treatment. A quality dog toothbrush and toothpaste cost under £15 and can last months.

4. Improves Quality of Life

Dogs with healthy teeth:

• Eat more comfortably and enthusiastically
• Play with toys without pain
• Have better breath (making cuddles more pleasant!)
• Experience less chronic discomfort
• Maintain their natural, cheerful demeanor

How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

Starting a dental care routine might seem daunting, but with patience and the right approach, most dogs can learn to tolerate—and even enjoy—tooth brushing.

Step 1: Get the Right Supplies

You'll need:

• Dog-specific toothpaste: Never use human toothpaste, which contains ingredients toxic to dogs. Dog toothpaste comes in flavors like chicken, beef, and peanut butter. Available at Pets at Home.
• Dog toothbrush: Soft-bristled brushes designed for dogs, or finger brushes for easier handling

Step 2: Introduction Phase

Don't rush straight into brushing. Dogs Trust recommends a gradual approach:

1. Day 1-3: Let your dog lick toothpaste off your finger to get used to the taste
2. Day 4-7: Gently touch their lips and teeth with your finger (no brush yet)
3. Day 8-10: Introduce the toothbrush by letting them sniff and lick it
4. Day 11+: Begin gentle brushing for just a few seconds, gradually increasing duration

Step 3: Brushing Technique

Once your dog is comfortable:

1. Lift your dog's lip to expose teeth and gums
2. Hold the brush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line
3. Use gentle circular motions
4. Focus on the outer surfaces of teeth (where tartar accumulates most)
5. Start with just a few teeth and build up to a full mouth over several sessions
6. Always end on a positive note with praise and treats!

How Often Should You Brush?

According to Blue Cross, ideally daily. However, 3-4 times per week still provides significant benefits. The key is consistency.

Alternative Dental Care Options

If your dog absolutely won't tolerate brushing, these alternatives can help (though they're not as effective as brushing):

Dental Chews

Pedigree Dentastix and Whimzees are clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup. Choose products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).

Dental Toys

Rubber toys with textured surfaces and rope toys can help remove plaque through chewing action. Available at Pets at Home.

Dental Water Additives

Products like TropiClean Fresh Breath can be added to drinking water to help reduce plaque and freshen breath.

Dental Wipes

Pre-soaked wipes can remove some surface plaque and are easier for reluctant dogs than brushing.

Professional Dental Care

Even with excellent at-home care, dogs should receive professional dental check-ups. Your vet may recommend:

Annual Dental Examinations

Part of your dog's regular health check, the vet inspects teeth and gums for signs of disease.

Professional Cleaning

Performed under anesthesia, this thorough cleaning removes tartar below the gum line that can't be reached at home. Frequency depends on your dog's dental health and breed predisposition.

Vets Now explains that small breeds and brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs often need more frequent professional cleanings due to crowded teeth and increased tartar buildup.

Breeds at Higher Risk

Some breeds are more prone to dental problems:

• Small breeds: Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians
• Brachycephalic breeds: Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers
• Greyhounds and other sighthounds

If you have one of these breeds, dental care is especially critical.

Starting Dental Care with Puppies

The best time to start dental care is during puppyhood. PDSA recommends introducing tooth brushing as soon as you bring your puppy home.

Puppies who learn that having their mouths handled is normal and rewarding will be much easier to care for throughout their lives.

Senior Dogs and Dental Care

It's never too late to start dental care! Senior dogs particularly benefit from dental hygiene since they're at higher risk for dental disease and related health problems.

However, senior dogs may have existing dental issues requiring veterinary attention before starting a home care routine. Consult your vet first.

Common Myths About Dog Dental Care

Myth: "Dry food cleans teeth"

Reality: While slightly better than wet food, regular kibble doesn't effectively clean teeth. Most dogs swallow kibble whole or with minimal chewing. Only specially formulated dental diets (like Royal Canin Dental or Hill's t/d) have proven plaque-reducing properties.

Myth: "Dogs naturally clean their teeth by chewing"

Reality: Wild canids experience dental disease too. Chewing helps, but it's not sufficient for optimal dental health.

Myth: "Bad breath is normal in dogs"

Reality: Bad breath (halitosis) is often the first sign of dental disease. Healthy mouths shouldn't have strong odors.

Myth: "Anesthesia for dental cleaning is too risky"

Reality: Modern anesthesia is very safe, and the risks of untreated dental disease far outweigh anesthesia risks. Non-anesthetic dentistry is not recommended as it's stressful and doesn't clean below the gum line where disease occurs.

OhRahRah's Role in Your Dog's Dental Health

While we focus on coat and hygiene grooming at OhRahRah, we're always happy to chat about your dog's overall health, including dental care. During grooming sessions, we can check your dog's teeth and let you know if we notice any concerns that should be discussed with your vet.

We believe in holistic pet care—looking after every aspect of your dog's wellbeing to ensure they live long, happy, healthy lives.

Take Action Today

Don't wait until your dog develops painful dental disease. Start a dental care routine today:

1. Purchase dog toothpaste and a brush from Pets at Home or your local pet store
2. Introduce tooth brushing gradually using the steps above
3. Be patient and consistent
4. Schedule a dental check-up with your vet
5. Celebrate your success with your happier, healthier dog!

Your dog may not thank you with words, but they'll thank you with years of comfortable eating, playful energy, and those wonderful doggy kisses (that now smell much better!).

For more pet care tips and grooming advice, explore our blog or get in touch with OhRahRah!